How Does COVID-19 Affect Microorganisms Present in the Vagina?

New findings on the effects of COVID-19 on preterm birth shed light on the importance of the vaginal microbiota altered by disease-causing organisms.

Crucial data on the risk of preterm birth caused by the change in vaginal microbiota due to COVID-19, reveals a new study conducted by researchers from Koç University İsbank Center for Infectious Diseases (KUISCID).

Although studies demonstrating the effect of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on preterm birth were already emphasized by many health professionals during the pandemic, this is the first research in the literature that focuses on the cause of this relationship.

Vaginal Douching - Is It Really Beneficial?
Douching is the process of cleansing the vagina with a stream of water or liquid solution for either hygienic or medical reasons.

‘COVID-19-induced proliferation of harmful organisms in the vaginal microbiota leads to certain risks, such as preterm birth.’

That’s why the study attracted significant international attention worldwide. Results were recently published in the Journal of Medical Virology. The research started during the spring of 2020 when the pandemic was at its peak and continued until vaccines were available.

Vaginal microbiota concerns all the microorganisms found in the female reproductive system. A balanced microbiota is possible by suppressing pathogens (disease-causing organisms). Otherwise, the proliferation of harmful organisms leads to certain risks, such as preterm birth.

Link Between COVID-19 and Disrupted Vaginal Microbiota

The study started with the question of whether the virus disturbs the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria during its effect on the vaginal microbiota. They took samples from severe COVID-19 cases who were pregnant and currently treated at Koç University Hospital.

Vaginal swabs were also collected from a control group. The study revealed that disruption in vaginal microbiota balance continued even after the disease, and there was a significant difference in the pathogenic bacteria levels between the infected and control groups.

Smart Tampons, Sanitary Napkins Help Detect Vaginal Infections
Tampons and sanitary napkins are now infused with a smart technology that can help in detecting vaginal infections. The incorporation of special color-changing threads in menstrual hygiene products helps in faster detection of vaginal yeast infections.

They observed a 70 percent microbiota change. Unfortunately, one of the babies was born at only week 25 – luckily as the Koç University Hospital, we are very experienced in this field and managed to save all infants.

Additional findings on vaginal damage demonstrated strong proof that changes in microbiota are the main cause of increasing the risk of preterm birth during COVID-19, which normally is known for its effect on the respiratory tract and lungs.

High Blood Pressure Increases Risk of COVID-19
Risk of COVID-19 decreases with control of hypertension

The results of this study are expected to raise awareness not only about the critical role of vaccines but also about the importance of vaginal microbiota and early treatment. Early interventions in the microbiota during other viral infections like COVID-19 will come out as a more critical solution.

Vaginal examinations are still more infrequent than other regular checks and are yet to become popularized among women all around the world. The attention attracted to the topic during the pandemic will be of crucial help in reducing pregnancy risks in the future.

Vaginal Bacteria can Lead to Premature Birth
Pregnant women are at risk of giving birth prematurely due to decreased levels of Lactobacillus bacteria and increased levels of other types of bacteria.

The study now expands to its second phase, in which more extensive experiments will be conducted on a larger population with the prospect of deeper findings. Stimulating a more detailed examination of the topic, the study will hopefully help with other diseases as well.

Source-Eurekalert